New Zealand call off Pakistan tour due to security concerns

In a massive setback to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), New Zealand have abandoned their limited-overs tour in the nation owing to security concerns. While the exact details of what those concerns are remain awaited, an NZC press release from September 17 confirmed that the tour stands cancelled, while arrangements are being made for the touring party to travel back to their country.

”The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert” the press release read. “The side was to play Pakistan this evening in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five match T20 series. However, following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground, it has been decided the BLACKCAPS will not continue with the tour.”

New Zealand, who were touring Pakistan for the first time since 2003, had touched down the venue in two batches on Saturday and Sunday and were staying in an Islamabad facility in a bio-secure environment. The tour comprised of three ODI, which were to be played in Rawalpindi on September 17, 19 and 21, followed by five T20Is, scheduled on September 25, 26, 29, and October 1 and 3 in Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Meanwhile, New Zealand were already missing a host of their first-choice players due to the series’ clash with the impending Indian Premier League’s resuming edition.

“Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure.  NZC chief executive David White said it was simply not possible to continue with the tour given the advice he was receiving. “I understand this will be a blow for the PCB, who have been wonderful hosts, but player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option.”

New Zealand Cricket Players Association chief executive Heath Mills echoed Mr White’s sentiments. “We’ve been across this process throughout and are fully supportive of the decision,” he said. “The players are in good hands; they’re safe – and everyone’s acting in their best interests. NZC will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.”